Greg Jefferson: Rich guys duke it out in CD 23

Auto dealership owners Ernesto Ancira and B.J. “Red” McCombs have battled for years for market share in San Antonio  and both got very rich doing it. Now, they’re pouring some of their prestige (and probably some of their wealth) into a fight over which Republican candidate will take on Congressman Ciro Rodriguez in next year’s 23rd Congressional District contest.

Ancira is backing County Commissioner Lyle Larson, who is widely expected to announce his candidacy in coming months. In a June 28 e-mail to friends and associates, Ancira wrote: Larson “has always worked tirelessly on behalf of his constituents, while balancing the needs of the business community. I expect him to announce his candidacy for the 23rd and strongly encourage you to be prepared to fully support him.”

In a press release, the Olmos Park billionaire praised Canseco’s banking and real estate experience and his family life. McCombs, an Anglo, also talked a little identity politics. “This district has been drawn to produce a minority representative and Canseco brings the values of business and family to the winning equation.”

Bonus point: Ancira, who is Hispanic, apparently concluded that an Anglo Republican (Larson) can win the district, which snakes from San Antonio to El Paso.